When I was young, I embraced change. I enjoyed moving into new apartments in college, meeting new friends, new adventures, staying up half (or all) the night just hanging out somewhere figuring out what to do next. I liked the changes which were a part of being young and not responsible for, or to, anyone.

  “Jesus Christ is …”

  As I grew older, changes became an inevitable part of my life. Jobs and careers were the primary source. Finding a job at Georgia State University in which I felt fulfilled, the ability to transfer between departments having respect from peers. I enjoyed learning new things about the State of Georgia’s largest University, enjoying working around students because you NEVER knew what they were going to be doing, the ability to take some classes along the way … all these made change something I still enjoyed and embraced.

  “Jesus Christ is the same …”

  As I continued to age and retirement loomed, that was a change I looked forward to and determining how to live the rest of my life doing what “I wanted to do.” Well, as the plans of mice, men, and Jimmy go … I had a couple jobs post-retirement that were not the best choices for me. Stress, anxiety, demeaning treatment, etc. all led me to jump around from one pot into another kettle and back into a pot, and so on. I was not in a very good emotional state for a number of years and I grew to hate the changes I made. I told myself constantly, “I should have never retired; this isn’t what I imagine.” I grew to hate and dread change.

  “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday …”

  Finally, I decided to quit everything and only focus on being a musician at my church (music has always been my calming place) and being a good son and brother to my family. Finally, a change that was good. Calming. Productive. Enjoyable. In time, I became the Minister of Music & Worship at my church and I have finally found a change that is good and fulfilling for me. Respected as a musician. As a Pastor. As a friend and co-church member.

  “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today …

  As a senior adult now, I am faced with the illness and deaths of people I have known and loved. My life changes each time I receive word of someone else who has an incurable illness, yet their strength in facing it encourages me. When I hear of someone who has passed from this life, I grieve, but feel encouraged because they are in Heaven … disease free, happy, reunited with loved ones, and finally get to meet God and Jesus. I’ve learned that this type of acceptance of change comes with age and with a closeness to God and knowing that His Way is His Way. All things in His time. As my Mennonite ancestors would quote at the death of someone, “The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. Blessed be the Name of the Lord.” (Job 1:21). At first glance, that seems rather cold and unfeeling, but I’ve learned to know that it is the heart of our faith. Trusting God for all things that happen. To recognize that He is in Control.

  “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)

  Life brings change. It’s up to us as to how we accept it…with grace and embrace…or with fear, sadness, or anger. I have learned it is much better to realize that God is in control of the changes and we must trust Him to help us in those times. They can be a time of growth for us and a better way is just over the horizon. Trust God in All you do!

  And for today my friends, this has been the gospel according to Jimmy.